Monday, October 31, 2005
Happy Reformation Day
Many, many years ago, Martin Luther started the Reformation on this day.
The Reformation was primarily over two things, no matter what you hear on TV.
1) Authority. Sola Scriptura. The Scriptures themselves are the final and ultimate authority for the Church and for Christians. Popes, councils and all of us err. The Word of God does not fail.
2) Justification by Faith Alone. In other words, the gospel. Are you trusting in how good you are or on what Jesus has done? Why would that be important? Listen to Paul from Galatians:
Many, many years ago, Martin Luther started the Reformation on this day.
The Reformation was primarily over two things, no matter what you hear on TV.
1) Authority. Sola Scriptura. The Scriptures themselves are the final and ultimate authority for the Church and for Christians. Popes, councils and all of us err. The Word of God does not fail.
2) Justification by Faith Alone. In other words, the gospel. Are you trusting in how good you are or on what Jesus has done? Why would that be important? Listen to Paul from Galatians:
You foolish Galatians! Who has bewitched you? Before your very eyes Jesus Christ was clearly portrayed as crucified. I would like to learn just one thing from you: Did you receive the Spirit by observing the law, or by believing what you heard? Are you so foolish? After beginning with the Spirit, are you now trying to attain your goal by human effort?
...
All who rely on observing the law are under a curse, for it is written: "Cursed is everyone who does not continue to do everything written in the Book of the Law."
